EP0863481B1 - Device for processing chip cards and/or cards having a magnetic strip - Google Patents

Abstract

The processing system is for use in producing smart cards and/or cards with data stored on magnetic strips. The machine can enter personal data into memory and also provide permanent data using laser or thermal printing or by embossing. The automated machine has the cards in a magazine (1) and are transferred by handling units (2) that operate in x and y planes to a number of work stations (M1, M2) that have processing units (3).

Description

The invention relates to a system for processing chip and / or magnetic stripe cards according to the preamble of the main claim.
From US-A-4772 782 a credit card is known, which is equipped with a magnetic stripe and a semiconductor chip whose data contents are correlated and to which a card personalization an imprint is created, introduced to the correlated information in the semiconductor chip and the magnetic stripe be applied. Alternatively, the order of information application may be made from the magnetic stripe or the chip.
Furthermore, from US-A-4 825 054 a processing equipment line for credit cards is known, which initially comprises a separating station and output a forklift. In the processing stations personalization data are introduced into a semiconductor chip, written on a magnetic strip and printed on the card. The correct processing is checked. In particular, program data is transferred to the chip, which takes considerable time during which the cards stay in the processing stations.

Such a system is also known from DE 30 49 607. At this Annex go through the cards, which contain a card containing the cards to be processed Card stock magazine are removed, successively only the chip and / or Magnetic stripe processing station where the changeable data is recorded, and then the card body processing station where the immutable data is applied become. This is after recording the data on the chip and / or magnetic stripe verifies that the recording has been made properly. This can be in the chip and / or Magnetic strip processing station or in a separate control station done. Cards in which the data recording on the chip and / or magnetic stripe not Done properly, the card body processing station, where not changeable data are recorded, no longer supplied. These cards will be discarded. A problem with such a system, however, is the card throughput, since the processing times in the chip and / or magnetic strip processing station and the Card body processing station are substantially different from each other. A typical one Example: Processing time for recording the data on a microprocessor chip approx. 20sec; Processing time for applying alphanumeric characters Laser inscription on the card body approx. 6 sec. The slow "chip personalization" limits the card throughput here.

Another system is known from EP 0 256 921. However, this allows Plant only the recording of data on the chip and / or magnetic strip and not the Applying non-changeable data to the card body. This system thus only includes a type of workstation, considering the chip and magnetic stripe processing as considered integrated in a processing station. Because the recording of the data in one Chip and / or magnetic strip processing station takes much longer than the time for the Removing a card from the card storage magazine, the transport of this card to the chip and / or Magnetic stripe processing station and the transfer of this card to the same, is in this system the chip and / or magnetic strip processing station is executed several times, i.e. while the first-transported card is for data recording in a chip and / or Magnetic strip processing station is already the next chip and / or Magnetic strip processing stations filled, etc. For this purpose, the Plant a plurality of juxtaposed chip and / or magnetic strip processing stations on. A linear gripper moves in front of these stations removes the cards to be processed from the card storage magazine, transported them to the chip and / or Magnetic strip processing stations and put them in this, with the chip and / or Magnetic strip processing stations are gradually filled. Is a card finished, the gripper pulls this card out of the chip and / or magnetic strip processing station and transports them to a storage magazine. For applying non-changeable data on the card body, e.g. by laser inscription, would have the Cards are removed from the storage magazine and fed to another system. With such a system, a so-called card personalization system, be on the one hand card / user specific data on the chip (semiconductor device) and / or the Magnetic stripe recorded and on the other hand card / user specific data on the Card body applied. For this purpose, such a system has a chip and / or Magnetic strip processing station, in which the chip and possibly the magnetic strip processing integrated in a known manner, and a card body processing station. While the on the chip or the magnetic stripe recorded data are usually changeable because the corresponding storage media are repeatedly writable, are the on the Card body applied data can not be changed. The unchangeable data will be for example by laser marking, thermal transfer printing or by embossing applied to the card body. The format of these cards is by international standards standardized (see ISO 7810).

The object of the invention is the initially described system for processing Chip and / or magnetic stripe cards to improve that they increased Throughput performance and it is compact and constructive easy to set up and flexibly expandable and reconfigurable.

This object is achieved according to the invention by the features of Claim 1 solved. The adjoining subclaims included advantageous and beneficial embodiments of the invention.

Fig.1

eine perspektivische Ansicht der Anlage,

Fig.2

eine Seitenansicht der Anlage,

Fig.3

eine Draufsicht auf die Anlage,

Fig.4

eine schematische Ansicht der Anlagenkomponenten in der Draufsicht,

Fig.5

eine Seitenansicht von Teilen der modular aufgebauten Anlage vor dem Zusammenbau (von rechts nach links: Kartenvorratsmodul, Kartenverteilmodul, Chip-und/oder Magnetstreifen-Bearbeitungsmodul),

Fig.6

eine Seitenansicht von Teilen der modular aufgebauten Anlage vor dem Zusammenbau (von rechts nach links: Chip-und/oder Magnetstreifen-Bearbeitungsmodul, Kartenverteilmodul, Kartenkörper-Bearbeitungsmodul- hier Laserstationsmodul),

Fig.7

eine Seitenansicht von Teilen der modular aufgebauten Anlage vor dem Zusammenbau (von rechts nach links: Kartenkörper-Bearbeitungsmodul, Kartenverteilmodul, Bilderkennungsmodul),

Fig.8

eine Seitenansicht von Teilen der modular aufgebauten Anlage vor dem Zusammenbau (von rechts nach links: Bilderkennungsmodul, Kartenablagemodul mit drei Ablagemagazinen),

Fig.9

eine schematische Darstellung der Vereinzelung einer Karte aus dem Kartenvorratsmagazin,

Fig.10

eine schematische Darstellung der Kartenübergabe von einem Kartenvorratsmagazin zur Kartenverteilvorrichtung,

Fig.11

eine Seitenansicht der zum Kartenvorratsmagazin gehörenden Kartenvereinzelungsvorrichtung,

Fig. 12

eine Seitenansicht der Kartenverteilvorrichtung,

Fig.13

eine Ansicht in Bearbeitunsablaufrichtung der auf auf einem Zahnriemen montierten Kartenverteilvorrichtung,

Fig.14

eine schematische Seitenansicht der Kartenübergabe von einer Kartenverteilvorrichtung an eine Bearbeitungstation,

Fig.15

eine schematische Seitenansicht der Laserbeschriftungsstation,

Fig.16

eine Draufsicht der zur Laserstation gehörenden Kartentransport- und Positioniervorrichtung,

Fig. 17

eine Seitenansicht der zur Laserstation gehörenden Kartentransport- and Positioniervorrichtung zur Verdeutlichung der Kartenwendeoption,

Fig.18

eine schematische Ansicht der Bilderkennungsstation.

In the accompanying drawings, the invention will be described in more detail below and the advantages explained. It shows:

Fig.1

a perspective view of the plant,

Fig.2

a side view of the plant,

Figure 3

a plan view of the plant,

Figure 4

a schematic view of the system components in plan view,

Figure 5

a side view of parts of the modular system before assembly (from right to left: card stock module, Kartenverteilmodul, chip and / or magnetic strip processing module),

Figure 6

a side view of parts of the modular system before assembly (from right to left: chip and / or magnetic stripe processing module, Kartenverteilmodul, card body Bearbeitungsmodul- here laser station module),

Figure 7

a side view of parts of the modular system before assembly (from right to left: card body processing module, Kartenverteilmodul, image recognition module),

Figure 8

a side view of parts of the modular system before assembly (from right to left: image recognition module, card deposit module with three storage magazines),

Figure 9

a schematic representation of the separation of a card from the card storage magazine,

Figure 10

a schematic representation of the card transfer from a card stock magazine to Kartenverteilvorrichtung,

Figure 11

a side view of belonging to the card storage magazine card separating device,

Fig. 12

a side view of the card distribution device,

Figure 13

a view in processing direction of the mounted on a timing belt card distribution device,

Figure 14

a schematic side view of the card transfer from a card distribution device to a processing station,

Figure 15

a schematic side view of the laser marking station,

Figure 16

a top view of belonging to the laser station card transport and positioning device,

Fig. 17

a side view of belonging to the laser station Kartenentransport- and positioning device to illustrate the Kartenwendeoption,

Figure 18

a schematic view of the image recognition station.

The system according to the invention has a card transport plane (x, y) with a Machining sequence axis (y) and a processing parallelization axis (x) on. there For example, processing stations (3, 4) of different types of processing are spaced apart arranged one behind the other along the machining process axis (y) and executed several times Processing stations (3,4) of a processing type parallel to each other along each of the Machining parallelization axis (x) arranged as a processing module (M3, M4). In the machining direction in front of and behind a processing module (M3, M4) consisting of two or more processing stations (3, 4) of the same machining type are respectively at least one card distribution device (2) belonging to the card transport system is arranged, which is movable along the processing-parallelization axis (x), and in is able, after starting each of a card receiving or card issuing position a map (K) from a card stock magazine (1) or a processing station (3,4) to receive, record or output to a processing station (3,4).

• einem Kartenvorratsmodul (M1), das ein oder mehrere nebeneinander entlang der Bearbeitungs-Parallelisierungsachse (x) angeordnete Kartenvorratsmagazine (1) aufweist,
• einem ersten Kartenverteilmodul (M2) mit einer Kartenverteilvorrichtung (2), die entlang der Bearbeitungs-Parallelisierungsachse (x) verfahrbar ist, und in der Lage ist, nach dem Anfahren jeweils einer Kartenempfangs- oder Kartenausgabeposition eine Karte (K) von einem Kartenvorratsmagazin (1) und/oder einer Bearbeitungsstation (3,4) zu empfangen, aufzunehmen und an eine Bearbeitungsstation (3,4) auszugeben,
• einem Chip- und/oder Magnetstreifen-Bearbeitungsmodul (M3), des zwei oder mehrere nebeneinander entlang der Bearbeitungs-Parallelisierungsachse (x) angeordnete Chip-und/oder Magnetstreifen-Bearbeitungsstationen (3) aufweist,
• einem zweiten Kartenverteilmodul (M2) mit einer Kartenverteilvorrichtung (2), die entlang der Bearbeitungs-Parallelisierungsachse (x) verfahrbar ist, und in der Lage ist, nach dem Anfahren jeweils einer Kartenempfangs- oder Kartenausgabeposition eine Karte (K) von einer Bearbeitungsstation (3,4) zu empfangen, aufzunehmen und an eine Bearbeitungsstation (3,4) auszugeben,
• mindestens einem Kartenkörper-Bearbeitunesmodul (M4), das ein oder mehrere nebeneinander entlang der Bearbeitungs-Parallelisierungsachse (x) angeordnete Kartenkörper-Bearbeitungsstationen (4) aufweist.

According to the invention, the system is made up of separate modules (M1, M2, M3, M4, M5), which are arranged one after the other along the processing sequence axis (y) and are detachably and interchangeably interconnected, each with its own support frame (MT). and out

• a card supply module (M1) which has one or more card supply magazines (1) arranged side by side along the processing parallelization axis (x),
• a card distribution module (M2) having a card distribution device (2) which is movable along the processing parallelization axis (x) and capable of picking up a ticket (K) from a card supply magazine (1 ) and / or a processing station (3,4) to receive and output to a processing station (3,4),
• a chip and / or magnetic strip processing module (M3) having two or more chip and / or magnetic strip processing stations (3) arranged side by side along the processing parallelization axis (x),
• a second Kartenverteilmodul (M2) with a Kartenverteilvorrichtung (2) which is movable along the processing-parallelization axis (x), and is able to start after a respective Kartenempfangs- or card issuing position a card (K) from a processing station (3 4) to receive, record and output to a processing station (3, 4),
• at least one card body processing module (M4 ) having one or more card body processing stations (4) arranged side by side along the processing parallelization axis (x).

The illustrated on the drawings embodiment of the invention Plant comprises 10 chip and / or magnetic strip processing stations (3), 3 laser stations (4) as card body processing stations for applying the non-changeable data the card body and 6 card storage magazines (1) with integrated device (10) for Separation of the magazinierten maps (K). Each chip and / or magnetic strip processing station (3) is in a known manner capable of the accuracy of the to review recorded data. In the machining direction (y) behind the Laser marking module (M4) is additionally an image recognition module (M5) with a Image recognition station (5) to verify the accuracy and quality of the on Card body applied data / information arranged. After the image evaluation It is automatically decided whether a card (K) in a storage magazine (6) for correct processed cards or in a reject magazine (6) for faulty cards is transported. In the embodiment, in each case three storage magazines / reject magazines (6) structurally combined as a card storage module (M6).

The modular design allows the integration of multiple chip and / or Magnetic stripe processing stations (3) and at least one card body processing station (4) in a compact design. In addition, the Due to their modular character, the system can be set up quickly and easily. From Particular advantage is the flexibility of this modular system in terms of expandability and Reconfigurability. The customer (customer) / operator of the system will thus be able to offset a plant according to his needs on the modular principle together. He can in each case on different, combinable with each other Resort to modules (M1, M2, M3, M4, M5). For example, in the case of inventive system the laser processing module (M4) against a Embossiermodul (Not shown) with at least one high embossing station or against Thermal sublimation printer module to be replaced. For this purpose, simply the Connection between the laser processing module (M4) and the two adjacent ones Card distribution modules (M2) solved, the laser processing module (M4) removed and the other card body processing module used. It's just as simple possible to extend an existing system by one or more processing modules. So For example, could the system between the Kartenverteilmodul (M2) and the Laser marking module (M4) are separated and a processing module with a or multiple thermal sublimation printers and another card distribution module become. This would be e.g. possible, before the laser inscription colored photos of the To charge cardholders. Just as easily can a plant according to the invention to a Image recognition module (M5) or a storage module (M6) can be extended.

The support frames (MT) of the system modules (M1, ..., M6) are preferably formed from aluminum profiles which can be screwed together in a simple manner for assembling the system. Each support frame (MT) in this case has its own module receiving platform, preferably a mounting plate (MT1). To set the card processing plane of the station / s of each module (M1, ... M6) on the one card transport plane (x, y) of the system , each support frame (MT) height adjustable feet (MT2) on. The station (s) (1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 6) of a module (M1, ..., M6) are removable and replaceably mounted on the receiving platform (MT1) of the support frame (MT). This in turn creates more flexibility and facilitates service and maintenance. Furthermore, it is provided that the station (s) (1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 6) of a module (M1, .. M6) can be mounted on the receiving platform (MT1) at different positions along the machining-parallelization axis (x). This is for example realized in that the receiving plate (MT1) has a perforated box for receiving fastening screws for mounting the stations of the module at different positions and / or with different distances to each other. By selecting the appropriate holes, the station is then mounted at the desired position. Furthermore, it is provided that the stations of a module are held displaceably on the receiving platform (MT) along the processing-parallelization axis (x). With these measures, the number of stations in a module can be changed in a simple manner and the positions of the stations can be adapted to changed system constellations.

In the following, the entire system will be described in detail for a better understanding become. The 6 card storage magazines (1) each with their separating devices (10) are arranged side by side along the machining parallelization axis (x). One Storage magazine (1) can hold up to 400 cards, depending on the version. Of the Magazine shaft is preferably at least on a subarea for larger magazines formed obliquely or curved extending over the vertical, so that a part of the Weight of the superimposed cards is collected by the magazine shaft and thus the respectively to be singled, lowest card (K) is weight relieved.

By the arrangement of several card supply magazines (1) / separating devices (10) along the machining-parallelizing axis (x) to which the cards of a variety to be processed are distributed, the card transport routes / times can be for which in the direction of processing direction (y) behind the card stock magazines (1) located Kartenverteilvorrichtung (2) for loading the chip and / or magnetic strip processing stations (3) minimize. To control the travel of the Card distribution device (2) to the respective card receiving and dispensing positions The computerized plant control includes a corresponding control algorithm that the various routes from the individual card stock magazines (1) to the various chip and / or magnetic strip processing stations (3) considered. At the Start the card processing are the chip and / or magnetic stripe processing stations (3) filled in successively with cards (K). Reports a chip and / or Magnetic strip processing station (3) that it is done with the processing of a card and is ready to receive the next card, the control algorithm decides Considering the current position of the card distribution device (2) above, off which card supply magazine (1) a card for the vacant chip and / or Magnetic strip processing station (3) can be seen.

In addition, it is also possible that in the card stock magazines (1) respectively different types of cards (for example, in the first magazine Bankarten Bank A, in the 2nd magazine Bank cards Bank B, etc.) are magazined. In this case, the cards will be long always taken from a card supply magazine (1) and onto the various chip and / or magnetic stripe processing stations (3) distributed to that of this type of card belonging order is processed.

The use of 6 card storage magazines (1) is only special in this Exemplary embodiment. There are also systems according to the invention with a different number from card stock magazines or even with a single card stock magazine provided by then the various chip and / or magnetic strip processing stations (3) are supplied with cards via the card distribution device (2).

Form the card supply magazines (1) with their separating devices (10) structurally a card stock module (M1) which is separably connected to the system. The Card stock magazines (1) with their integrated separating devices (10) are Removable and replaceable on the mounting plate (MT1) for the card supply module (M1) arranged. This card supply module (M1) is used as a component of the system this connected by the card stock module (M1) to the first Kartenverteilmodul (M2) - see below - "docked" is.

The separation of a card (K) from the magazine (1) is performed by the Separation device (10) - cf. 11, on which the card supply magazine (1) with his magazine shaft is put on. The map to be separated (K) by means of one of a crank mechanism (10B) driven slide (10A) to a motor-driven Extracting rollers (10C), which then pull out the card under the pile of cards. This is shown schematically in FIG. 9. The transfer of the isolated card (K) to a Map distribution device (2) located in card receiving position is shown in FIG shown schematically. After the isolated card (K) the light barrier (10D) in the to the card supply magazine (1) belonging separating device (10) has happened is the drive of the pull-out rollers (10C) is switched off.

The card distribution device (2) - cf. Fig. 12- shows one along the machining-parallelization axis (x) motorized slide (2A), on which a Card receiving housing (2B) is mounted, in which case is not a closed housing Housing must mean, but as in this embodiment of two Housing side parts is formed. In the card receiving housing (2B) 3 are motorized drivable transport roller pairs, each consisting of two superimposed, between each of the cards in frictional contact at the height of the card transport plane (x, y) consist of receiving transport rollers (2C). These transport rollers (2C) are vertical to the processing sequence axis (y) arranged axes rotatably mounted. It is in each case a transport roller (2C) of a pair of transport rollers motor driven. Preferably the drive direction of the transport rollers (2C) reversible, so that the Kartenverteilvorrichtung (2) is able to receive or issue cards in both directions. In the Card transfer from the separating device / card storage magazine (10.1) to the Kartenverteilvorrichtung (2), the cards are each of the Auszugsrollen (10C) of the Separating device (10) to the feed rollers (2D) of the card distribution device (2) for Transfer onward. In the card receiving position, the cards roll quasi triggered through the slide (10A) of the separating device (10) through to the Card distribution device (2). This goes in comparison to that described in EP 0 252 921 Gripper much faster and gentler on the sensitive map surface.

By doing Card receiving housing (2B) of the card distribution device (2) is at least one sensor provided that reports whether a retracted card (K) properly recorded or was issued. Only after a proper sensor message can the Map distribution device (2) along the machining parallelization axis (x) proceed become. This ensures that the Kartenverteilvorrichtung (2) is not moved, if the card is e.g. still partially in the separating device (10) and only partly in the card distribution device (2) is inserted. In the illustrated embodiment are for the Kartenverteilvorrichtung (2) three light barriers (2E, 2F, 2G) provided as sensors whose Function to be explained: The card input side in front of the transport rollers (2D) arranged light barrier (2E) starts immediately after detection of one of the Kartenverteilvorrichtung (2) transferred card (K) the drive (21) for the transport rollers (2C) for the further collection and transport of the card (K). After the card (K) the Photocell (2E) has passed, a message is generated, which is the procedure of Card distribution device (2) along the processing-parallelization axis (x) unlocks. The card exit photocell (2F) will generate a message when the card detects the Photoelectric barrier (2F) has gone through, this is in turn the process of Card distribution device (2) unlocked. In addition, the card output side switches Photoelectric sensor (2F) immediately after detection of a received card drive (2I) for the transport rollers (2C), if the Kartenverteilvorrichtung (2) not yet has reached the intended issue position. The middle photocell (2G) creates a Message when a card is between the two outer photocells (2E, 2F) located. This is important to determine when the system is first started Map distribution device (2) free and thus able to receive a card. If before the first time the system one of the photocells (2E, 2F, 2G) reports that still a card is present in the card distribution device (2) (for whatever reason always), the operator of the system is preferably prompted to manually connect this card remove. For guiding / position adjustment of cards on card transport plane (x, y) at Receiving or outputting has the card receiving housing (2B) of Card distribution device (2) card input and output side one each Card guiding device on. In the example shown, this is two in the distance superimposed guide rollers (2H) whose axes of rotation perpendicular to Processing process axis (y) run, formed. The distance between the guide rollers (2H) is larger than one and smaller than two card thicknesses. This ensures that slightly obliquely to the card transport plane received or issued cards back to the Card transport plane (x, y) are performed. Card exit side has the card receiving housing (2B) extends from the photocell (2F), between the guide rollers (2H) outwardly open slot, whereby it is possible that the Card distribution device (2) can be moved already when a card actually has already been issued to the chip and / or magnetic strip processing station (3), but the back of the card is still between the guide rollers (2H). hereby unnecessary waiting time is saved.

FIG. 13 shows how the card distribution device (2) is moved in the exemplary embodiment. In this case, the carriage (2A) of the Kartenverteilvorrichtung (2) via a mounting plate (20A) directly on a rotating, motor-driven toothed belt (20B) is mounted. The toothed belt (20B) can be moved between two limiting positions. For this purpose, there are provided two limit switches (20D, 20D *) opposite each other at the distance of the travel, which are actuated by the carriage (2A) upon reaching the left or right limit position, whereby the drive (20C) for the toothed belt (20B) is switched off becomes. Between these two limiting positions, the toothed belt (20B) with the card distribution device (2) in each case drives the card receiving or card issuing position predetermined by the system control. In the system according to the embodiment, the max. Traversing speed for the card distribution device (2) approx. 2.5m / s; the max. Acceleration is approx. 10m / s ² . Thus, the Kartenverteilvorrichtung (2) is able to max. Travel distance of in this special version of the plant about 1m- in about 1s cover. At a card transport speed of 200-400mm / s through the transport rollers (2C) of the card distribution device (2) this is able to pass the 85mm long cards in a time <0.5s to a processing station. By using differently long toothed belts (20B) with a corresponding guide rail, the maximum possible travel distance of the card distribution device (2) can be flexibly adjusted to different depths of parallelization, that is to say the number of processing stations (3, 4) running parallel to one another several times, which is controlled by the card distribution device (2 ) must be operated with cards adapted. In addition, it is also provided to mount on the timing belt two Kartenverteilvorrichtungen (not shown), wherein a division of the travel distance is made. The Kartenverteilvorrichtung (2) including timing belt (20B), drive, etc. constructively form the Kartenverteilmodul (M2), which is connected as a component of the system with this separable and interchangeable. The Kartenverteilmodul (M2) between the card stock module (1) and chip and / magnetic strip processing module (M3) is identical to the Kartenverteilmodul (M2), which between the chip and / magnetic strip processing module (M3) and the laser processing module (M4 ) is arranged; and - in the embodiment - also identical in construction to the Kartenverteilmodul which is arranged between the laser processing module (M4) and the image recognition module (M5). The Kartenverteilmodul (2) can be installed in "sandwich construction" in a simple manner between two plant modules (M1, M3, M4, M5).

Below are still 3 other (not shown) embodiments of Traversability of Kartenverteilvorrichtung be described. In a first alternative Embodiment, the carriage of the card distribution device on at least one parallel held to the processing-parallelization axis arranged guide rail movable. In this case, the carriage with a circumferential, running parallel to the guide rail, motor is connected between two Begrenzugspositionen transportable belt and is movable with this. In the second embodiment the carriage of the Kartenverteilvorrichtung also on at least one parallel to Machining parallelization axis arranged guide rail held movable. there is the carriage with two parallel to the guide rail running, motor drivable Zugseilen connected and proceeded by these. In the third Embodiment, the carriage of the Kartenverteilvorrichtung via a parallel to Machining parallelization axis arranged, motor driven threaded spindle method.

In FIG. 14, the transfer of a card (K) from the right to the left is shown schematically Card distribution device (2) to a chip box shown as a black box and / or Magnetic strip processing station (3) shown. Located behind the processing station (3) also a Kartenverteilvorrichtung (2), in which now the previously processed card (K ') is located for onward transport. The parallel juxtaposed chip and / or Magnetic strip processing stations (3) constructively form the chip and / or Magnetic strip processing module (M3). In an embodiment not shown the Plant is provided, two identical chip and / or magnetic strip processing modules each with the same number of stations (3) in the processing flow direction one after another without the interposition of a card distribution module (M2) again as Machining module (M3 ') arranged to summarize the card throughput even further to increase. The card transport between successively arranged chip and / or Magnetic strip processing modules are performed by the stations of these modules themselves the recording of the data in one of these stations (3), the cards (K) to the Passing subsequent Kartenverteilvorrichtung (2) and continue to a free or to the am transported fastest released of the three laser stations (4)

FIG. 15 shows a side view of the laser station (4). The laser beam generation takes place in spatially separated from the system laser systems (in the embodiment a Neodymium YAG laser, λ = 1.06μm). The laser radiation is transmitted via a glass fiber (not shown) the Ausjustagegründen against the card transport plane (x, y) height-adjustable laser marking head (40) of the laser station (4) supplied. Of the Laser marking head (40) can be adjusted in height on a mounting rail (40B) mounted mounting plate (40A) mounted. In the mounting plate (40A) is a Plan field objective (40C) for focusing the laser radiation (LS) on the card (K). The Coupling of the laser radiation (LS) via the glass fiber is done by a head (40) arranged Einkopoppelvorrichtung (40D) with Einkoppellinse for the divergent from the Glass fiber emerging laser beam. The almost parallel left of the coupling lens Laser beam (LS) strikes map marker via a pair of deflection mirrors (40E) Planfield objective (40C) and then on the map (K).

Part of the laser station (4) is a specially developed transport and Positioning device (41) for the cards (K) - cf. Fig. 16 and 17. This transport and Positioning device (41) has a mounting frame (41 B) with an insertion slot (41C) and a dispensing slot (41C *) opposite thereto in alignment, wherein Card transport direction behind the insertion slot (41 C) an input centering device and in front of the discharge slot (41C *), an output centering device respectively for the Centering of the cards on the card transport plane (x, y) is arranged. This device allows the positioning of the card without the supervision of the card pages (front-like also back side) only partly to hide. This is a completely uncovered Labeling and viewing window given (see also EP 863 483). This is essential for an unrestricted Laser marking on the entire map surface. Between the insertion slot (41C) and the exit slot (41C *) and parallel to the card transport direction is a row of side by side on the mounting frame (41 B) rotatably mounted guide rollers (41 D) for the Maps arranged whose axes of rotation perpendicular to the card transport plane (x, y). The guide rollers (41D) spaced opposite one another is about the length the guide roller row extending conveyor belt (41E). This transport belt (41E) is located between a motorized drive pulley (41F) and a Output roller (41 G) whose axes of rotation are perpendicular to the card transport plane (x, y), held. The maps (K) for transport and positioning with their Long sides (K1, K2) laterally between the guide rollers (41D) and the transport belt (41E). This allows the card pages to be completely uncovered.

The transport and positioning device (41) also allows the card (K) to Turn, which allows labeling the back - see Fig. 17 -. To this The purpose is the mounting frame (41B) with the insertion slot (41C), the output slot (41C *), Guide Roller Series (41D) and Transport Belt (41E) in one housing (41A) rotatably mounted about an axis parallel to the card transport direction by 180 °. It is on the mounting frame (41B) coaxial to the card transport direction a turntable (41H) mounted, the positive and / or non-positively via a drive belt (41I) with a Drive motor (41J) is connected. The transport and positioning device (41) can Cards in the inverted and in the inverted position of the Card distribution device (2) received and to the next card distribution device (2) output. The three laser stations (4) structurally form the laser processing module (M4), which is connected as a component of the system with this separable and interchangeable.

FIG. 18 shows a processing flow direction behind the laser processing module (M4) arranged image recognition station (5) to verify the accuracy and quality of on the card body applied data (Hans Mustermann, Kontonr .: ...) shown. This consists of two cameras (50) looking from above and below at the card (K), preferably CCD cameras. With these cameras (50) can the correctness of the on the Cards flashed card-specific data by comparing the respective evaluated image with each belonging to a map record. In addition to the accuracy can also the quality of laser marking (contrast, edge sharpness etc.). Cards with wrong or faulty laser markings are sorted out. For transport and positioning of the laser stations (4) received cards, the image recognition station (5) has a transport and Positioning device (51). Again, as in the laser station, it is important that the cards to be inspected by the cameras (50) are not from parts of the transport and Positioning device (51) are covered. For this reason is in an advantageous manner for the transport and positioning device (51) of the image recognition station (5) one for Transport and positioning device (41) of the laser station (4) identical device used. If - as in the embodiment - two cameras (50), one for the Card front and one for the card back, can be used during transport and Positioning device (51) can be dispensed with the turning option. As faulty recognized cards are stored in a reject magazine (6).

After the image recognition station (5). The cards are in one of the storage magazines (6) filed. Which of the storage magazines (6) for the "good cards" and which for the "Bad cards" can be used by the plant operator over the Plant control flexibly be set.

At this point is still on a further advantage of the system according to the invention be pointed out. When editing ("personalization") of cards with this attachment It will be ensured that the order of finished cakes in the "good cards" storage magazines the sequence of the records imported into the system (for example: consecutive card numbers), even if- for a variety of reasons never be ruled out - the application of data in the chip and / or magnetic strip processing station (3) or the laser station (4) was faulty or insufficient. The Maintaining the correct card order is essential if subsequent, automated processing steps (e.g., in mailers for the cards) this provide. As mentioned above, in the chip and / or magnetic strip processing stations (3) immediately checks whether the data is correct on the chip or on the magnetic stripe were recorded. Is e.g. because of a bad chip or Magnetic stripe recording the data on a card is not possible, then will be only the records / cards remaining in the order between the last "good card" and the "bad card" lie, finished. From the card storage magazine (1) is taken a virgin card and on this the card / user-specific record the "bad card" applied. Thereafter, the normal processing is performed again. The same applies to errors in laser marking, which occur in the image recognition station (5). be recognized.

The "bad cards" are stored in a reject magazine (6). To be in the Case of "bad cards" the processing stations (3,4) do not deal with these "bad cards" to "clog" is the chip and / or magnetic stripe processing module (M3) and the laser marking module (M4) in each case a parking and / or bypass station (3 *, 4 *) -. Fig.3 assigned. If e.g. in a chip and / or magnetic strip processing station (3) it is determined that the chip of a card is out of order and thus on this card no data can be recorded, then this card must be in the reject magazine (6) to get promoted. Now, if everyone agrees to the chip and / or magnetic strip editing module (M3) subsequent laser marking stations (4) with too labeling cards are busy, the "bad card" is sent via the bypass station (4 *) from the card distribution devices (2) past the laser marking stations (4) into the Scrap magazine (6) transported; if necessary, the "bad card" in the bypass station (4 *) between parked. In the event that the parking / bypass station (4 *) already with a "bad card" is blocked, the parking station (3 *) can be used.

Instead of card stock modules (M6), the system can also have a Inserting machine for releasable fixing / packaging of processed cards on / in one Carrier; or else the system hands over the finished cards to such a machine, where "bad cards" are discarded via a switch.

In addition to or instead of the laser station (4), the system can be used as a card body processing station a high embossing station (Embossierstation), a thermal transfer printer, a dye sublimation printer or an ink jet printer. Depending on the processing time of these stations in relation to the other processing stations these are multiply executed along the machining parallelization axis (x).

In Fig.1 is still the control terminal (BT, monitor) of the system control for the Operator and two label printers (ED) for printing lot number labels, which are glued on each of the magazines with the finished cards.

Claims (31)

1. System for processing chip and/or magnetic strip cards (K) comprising the following components:

   at least one card-stock magazine (1) for the reception of cards to be processed,

   two or more chip- and/or magnetic strip-processing stations (3) for applying data/information to the chip (semiconductor component) and/or to the magnetic strip of the cards,

   at least one card body-processing station (4) for applying non-modifiable data/information to the card body,

   a card-transport system for transporting the cards from the card-stock magazine(s) (1) to the chip- and/or magnetic strip-processing stations (3) and then to the card body-processing station(s) (4) and then onward from these,

   characterized in that

   the system has a card-transport plane (x,y) with a processing-sequence axis (y) and a processing-parallelization axis (x) running perpendicular to it, processing stations (3,4) of different processing types being arranged at a distance behind one another along the processing-sequence axis (y), and repeated processing stations (3,4) of a processing type being arranged alongside one another along the processing-parallelization axis (x) as processing modules (M3,M4),

   the system is constructed from separate modules (M1,M2,M3,M4,M5) connected to one another, arranged separable and interchangeable behind one another along the processing-sequence axis (y), each with its own supporting structure (MT), namely

   a card-stock module (M1) which has one or more card-stock magazines (1) arranged alongside one another along the processing-parallelization axis (x),

   a first card-distribution module (M2) with a card-distribution device (2) which is movable along the processing-parallelization axis (x) and, after each arrival at a card-receiving or card-issuing position, is able to receive a card (K) from a card-stock magazine (1) and/or a processing station (3,4), hold it and issue it to a processing station (3,4)

   a chip- and/or magnetic strip-processing module (M3) which has two or more chip- and/or magnetic strip-processing stations (3) arranged alongside one another along the processing-parallelization axis (x),

   a second card-distribution module (M2) with a card-distribution device (2) which is movable along the processing-parallelization axis (x) and after arrival is able to receive a card (K) from a processing station (3,4), hold it and issue it to a processing station (3,4),

   at least one card body-processing module (M4) which has one or more card body-processing stations (4) arranged alongside one another along the processing-parallelization axis (x).
2. System according to claim 1,
   characterized in that
   in processing-sequence direction (y) behind the last card body-processing module (M4) the system has an image-recognition module (M5) with at least one image-recognition station (5) for checking the correctness and quality of the data applied to the card body.
3. System according to one of the previous claims,
   characterized in that
   in processing-sequence direction (y) behind the image-recognition module (M5) the system has at least one card-filing module (M6) with at least one filing magazine (6) and one rejects magazine (6).
4. System according to one of the previous claims,
   characterized in that
   each supporting structure (MT) has a module-reception platform.
5. System according to one of the previous claims,
   characterized in that
   the supporting structures (MT) of the system modules (M1,...,M6) are formed from aluminium profiles, the aluminium supporting structures (MT1) of the individual modules being screwable to one another.
6. System according to one of the previous claims,
   characterized in that
   each supporting structure (MT) has height-adjustable feet (MT2), in order to set the card-processing/transport planes of the station(s) (1,2,3,4,5,6) of each module (M1,...,M6) to the card-transport plane (x,y) of the system.
7. System according to one of the previous claims,
   characterized in that
   the station(s) (1,2,3,4,5,6) of a module (M1,...,M6) are mounted removable and exchangeable on the reception platform (MT1).
8. System according to one of the previous claims,
   characterized in that
   the station(s) (1,...,6) of a module (M1,...,M6) can be mounted on the reception platform (MT) at various positions along the processing-parallelization axis (x).
9. System according to one of the previous claims,
   characterized in that
   the reception plate (MT) of a module (M1,...,M6) has a mounting-hole field for the reception of fastening screws for the mounting of the station(s) (1,2,3,4,5,6) of the module at various positions and/or at various distances from one another.
10. System according to one of claims 1 to 8,
    characterized in that
    the station(s) (1,...,6) of a module are held displaceable on the reception platform (MT).
11. System according to one of the previous claims,
    characterized in that
    the card-distribution device (2) has a carriage (2A), movable by motor continuously or stepwise along the processing-paraltelization axis (x), on which is mounted a card-reception housing (2B), motor-drivable feed rolls (2C) being housed rotatable on axes arranged perpendicular to the processing-sequence axis (y) in the card-reception housing (2B) for the drawing-in and issuing of cards.
12. System according to claim 11,
    characterized in that
    at least 3 pairs of feed rolls (2C), each arranged one above the other, are provided in the card-reception housing (2B), between each of which are provided the feed rolls (2) receiving cards (K) in friction contact on card-transport plane (x,y), each feed roll (2C) of a feed-roll pair being motor-drivable.
13. System according to one of claims 11 or 12,
    characterized in that
    the drive direction of the feed rolls (2C) is reversible.
14. System according to one of claims 11 to 13,
    characterized in that
    the card-reception housing (2B) of the card-distribution device (2) has at least one sensor which reports whether a drawn-in card (K) has been properly received or properly issued, the card-distribution device (2) being movable along the processing-parallelization axis (x) only after a satisfactory sensor report has been issued.
15. System according to claim 14,
    characterized in that
    a light barrier (2E, 2F) each is provided on the card-entry side in front of the feed rolls (2C) and on the card-exit side behind the feed rolls (2C), whereby

    immediately after the detection of a card transferred to the card-distribution device (2) by the card-entry-side light barrier (2E), the drive (21) for the feed rolls (2C) is started and after the card (K) has passed through this light barrier (2E) a report is generated which clears the card-distribution device (2) for travel along the processing-parallelization axis (x),

    after the card (2) has passed through the exit-side light barrier (2F) a report is generated which clears the card-distribution device (2) for travel along the processing-parallelization axis (x).
16. System according to claim 15,
    characterized in that
    the card-exit side light barrier (2F) switches off the motor (21) for the feed tolls (2C) immediately after detecting a received card (K), if the card-distribution device (2) has not yet reached the provided exit position.
17. System according to one of claims 11 to 16,
    characterized in that
    the card-reception housing (2B) has a card-guiding device each (2H) on the card-entry and card-exit side to guide the cards on the card-transport plane.
18. System according to claim 17,
    characterized in that
    the card-guiding device is formed from two guide rolls (2H) arranged at a distance one above the other, whose rotation axes run parallel to the processing-parallelization axis (x), the distance between the guide rolls (2H) being greater than one, and less than two, card thicknesses.
19. System according to one of claims 11 to 18,
    characterized in that
    the carriage (2A) of the card-distribution device (2) is mounted via a mounting plate (20A) directly on a circulating belt (20B), which is motor-drivable and transportable between two limiting positions.
20. System according to one of claims 11 to 19,
    characterized in that
    the carriage of the card-distribution device is held movable on at least one guide roll arranged parallel to the processing-parallelization axis (x), the carriage being connected to a circulating belt, running parallel to the guide roll, which is motor-transportable between two limiting positions and being movable therewith.
21. System according to one of claims 11 to 19,
    characterized in that
    the carriage of the card-distribution device is held movable on at least one guide roll arranged parallel to the processing-parallelization axis (x), the carriage being connected to two motor-drivable traction cables running parallel to the guide roll, and movable thereby.
22. System according to claim 11,
    characterized in that
    the carriage of the card-distribution device is movable via a motor-drivable threaded spindle arranged parallel to the processing-parallelization axis (x).
23. System according to one of the previous claims,
    characterized in that
    the system has at least one laser-inscription station (4) as a card body-processing station.
24. System according to one of the previous claims,
    characterized in that
    the system has three laser-inscription stations (4) and ten chip- and/or magnetic strip-processing stations (3).
25. System according to one of the previous claims,
    characterized in that
    the system has at least one embossing station as card body-processing station.
26. System according to one of the previous claims,
    characterized in that
    the system has at least one thermo-transfer printer as card body-processing station.
27. System according to one of the previous claims,
    characterized in that
    the system has at least one thermal sublimation printer as card body-processing station.
28. System according to one of the previous claims,
    characterized in that
    the system has at least one ink-jet printer as card body-processing station.
29. System according to one of the previous claims,
    characterized in that
    at least one card-stock magazine (6), one chip- and/or magnetic strip-processing station (3) and one laser station (4) are arranged aligned one behind the other.
30. System according to one of the previous claims,
    characterized in that
    structurally identical processing modules (M3,M4) of one processing type each with the same number of repeated processing stations (3,4) are in turn assembled together as a processing module (M3',M4') in processing-sequence direction (y) behind one another without the interposition of a card-distribution module (M2).
31. System according to one of the previous claims,
    characterized in that
    each processing module (M3,M4) has a park and/or bypass station (3*,4*) for cards.

Images